In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.

This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.

This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.

This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.

A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.

A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.

A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.

One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.

A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

A smile isn’t always what it seems.

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.

This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.

In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.

A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.

The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.

Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.

A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.

A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.

A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

Glimpse into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.

Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.

A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.

Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.

This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.

In this personal narrative, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view

Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".

In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.

Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.

In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA youth through the analysis of two webcomics.

This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.

This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.